Mark K Locklear

Mark K. Locklear, 57, of Lumberton, passed away on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at UNC Chapel Hill. He was born in Robeson County on August 11, 1968, to the late Thomas and Roberta Locklear. Mark was a devoted husband and partner to his wife Crystal Slater, whom he married on October 6, 2007. Over the past 18 years of marriage, they built a life full of love, adventure, and family togetherness.

A man of immense dedication and work ethic, Mark was a long-time employee and Project Manager at Southern Industrial Constructors (SIC). For over 20 years, he took great pride in his work and his team. He was more than just a manager; he was a mentor to his employees and was known for his unwavering commitment to any job he performed-whether at the work site, around the house, or out in the community. He held a special appreciation for the joy of working alongside his brother and nephew at SIC.

In his free time, Mark loved to be on the move. He enjoyed going on cruises and spending time on his wife's family farm in Virginia, where he was happiest driving the tractor and making hay. A true fan of his home state, Mark was a die-hard supporter of the UNC Tar Heels and the Carolina Panthers, and he truly loved the color Carolina Blue. Mark was the driving force of encouragement behind his wife Crystal starting the Carolina Glitterettes group in Lumberton supporting her passion. Mark left a lasting impact on the group, the girls, and their families. He was a constant presence at performances and parades, proudly serving as the group's official "Mustang driver."

Above all, Mark loved his family. When his father passed, Mark stepped up to be the "man of the family," helping keep the family strong and united. He was an amazing "Papaw" to his granddaughters, whom he loved to spoil and spend time with at every opportunity.

Mark is preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Roberta Locklear; a sister, Jeanette Locklear; and a brother-in-law, Rev. Ronald Locklear.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory, his loving wife, Crystal Slater; his son, Mark Anthony Locklear; and his beloved granddaughters, Saniyah and Viviana Locklear.

He is also survived by four sisters: Louise Locklear, Rose Locklear (Rev. Ray), and Erline Barnes (Phillip), all of Lumberton, and Betty Lois Locklear of St. Pauls; three brothers: Tommy Ray Locklear (Sachiko) of Japan, Rev. Donnie Lee Locklear (Sherry) of Maxton, and Ronnie Locklear (Helen) of Lumberton; a special nephew, Ron, along with other nieces, nephews, and extended family whom he loved deeply.

He is also survived by his parents-in-law, Danny and Donna Slater; and brothers-in-law, Anthony Slater (Stephanie), and Brent Slater (Krista), all of Virginia.

A visitation and memorial service will be held at Revels Funeral Home in Lumberton on Sunday, January 18, 2026. The family will receive friends for visitation starting at 1:30 PM, with the funeral service to follow immediately at 3:00 PM.